Loune-Djenia Askew, Esq.
Oct 24, 2025
Parking lots might seem like safe places to drive, but they’re actually one of the most common spots for car accidents in Florida. From bumping another vehicle while trying to park to backing out and scraping a car behind you, even minor mishaps can cause stress and confusion. No matter how small the damage appears, it’s important to know what to do next to protect yourself legally and financially.
Parking lots might seem like safe places to drive, but they’re actually one of the most common spots for car accidents in Florida. From bumping another vehicle while trying to park to backing out and scraping a car behind you, even minor mishaps can cause stress and confusion. No matter how small the damage appears, it’s important to know what to do next to protect yourself legally and financially.
Report the Accident
Under Florida law, if the property damage from the collision totals $500 or more, you must report the accident to the police right away. But since it’s often hard to estimate the damage on the spot, it’s best to make a report anytime there’s visible damage.
If you don’t see any damage, remain at the scene for a while to ensure everything is okay. Reporting even a minor collision can help you avoid potential legal issues later on—especially if the other driver later claims damages.
Try to Locate the Vehicle Owner
If you hit a parked car and the owner isn’t around, do your best to find them nearby so you can exchange information. If you can’t locate them, leave a note on their windshield with your name, contact details, insurance company, and a brief explanation of what happened.
It’s also smart to:
Take photos of the vehicles, license plates, and surrounding area to document the scene.
Look for witnesses who saw what happened and collect their names and contact details. Their statements can help clarify what occurred if there’s a dispute or insurance claim later.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Let your insurance provider know about the accident as soon as possible—even if the damage is small. Failing to report a collision could result in a denied claim down the road. Provide them with all the details, including photos and witness information, to ensure your report is accurate.
Don’t Leave the Scene!
Leaving the scene after hitting a parked vehicle—even accidentally—can result in serious legal trouble. In Florida, doing so is considered a hit-and-run, which can lead to:
A $500 fine
Second-degree misdemeanor charges
Up to 60 days in jail
Possible driver’s license suspension
Even if it seems like no one saw what happened, it’s always better to stay, report, and handle the situation responsibly.
Sometimes, even when you’ve done everything right, you could still face accusations of a hit-and-run or find yourself in a complicated insurance dispute. In these cases, it’s important to contact an experienced an attorney who can guide you through the process and protect your rights.
A skilled lawyer can help you gather evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and ensure your side of the story is heard.
Accidents in parking lots happen more often than most people realize. Staying calm, documenting everything, and reporting the incident immediately are the best ways to protect yourself. And if you ever face legal trouble afterward, professional legal help can make all the difference.
For more information, contact our office at Askew & Associates, P.A. by calling 954-546-2699.
Disclaimer: this blog post is not intended to be legal advice. We highly recommend speaking to an attorney if you have any legal concerns.